TCE Calls DACA Decision a Devastating Blow to Health and Justice for All

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Sacramento, Calif., (September 5, 2017) – The California Endowment denounces the President’s decision to dismantle Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA), a program that shields immigrants who were brought to the country as children from deportation and allows them to obtain work permits. Roughly 800,000 children and young adults are currently under the protection of DACA across the United States.

Members of the University Leadership Initiative hold a press conference at the Capitol on Wednesday, February 18, 2015, concerning the recent DACA ruling. DEBORAH CANNON / AMERICAN-STATESMAN

Endowment President and CEO Dr. Robert K. Ross today issued the following statement:

“The revocation of DACA is a colossal breach in our nation’s progress towards a more equitable and inclusive society. It’s an injustice not only to our fellow community members with DACA status, but to all Californians and for that matter, all Americans. Ending the DACA program threatens the health and well-being of our neighborhoods, our families and our very humanity. Our economy stands to take a significant hit to the tune of billions of dollars, and the very fabric of our democracy is forever scarred.

“This year, amidst great strife, we’ve seen the people of California rise up again and again to fight racism, hatred, and fear. It is more important now than ever to #RiseUpAsOne, and I know our communities won’t stand down to this latest challenge. We reaffirm the fight to protect DREAMers, DACA recipients, and the entire immigrant community. We will continue to share their stories, share their battles, and stand up for what is right.

“The California Endowment stands in solidarity with all of our friends, neighbors, and staff – no matter where they come from – in an unwavering commitment to justice and health for all.”

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About The California Endowment

The California Endowment, a private, statewide health foundation, was established in 1996 to expand access to, quality health care for underserved individuals and communities, and to promote fundamental affordable improvements in the health status of all Californians. Headquartered in downtown Los Angeles, The Endowment has regional offices in Sacramento, Oakland, Fresno and San Diego, with program staff working throughout the state. The Endowment challenges the conventional wisdom that medical settings and individual choices are solely responsible for people’s health. Through its ‘Health Happens Here’ campaign and ten-year initiative for Building Healthy Communities, The Endowment is creating places where children are healthy, safe and ready to learn. At its core, The Endowment believes that health happens in neighborhoods, schools, and with prevention. For more information, visit The California Endowment’s homepage at www.calendow.org